Vancouver will restore open public comment at all council meetings beginning in 2026, marking a major shift in how residents can engage with city leaders
After several years of limiting public comment to agenda items only, the Vancouver City Council has unanimously voted to bring back open public comment on any topic at every council meeting starting in 2026. Councilors said the change is meant to make City Hall more accessible and ensure residents have a consistent opportunity to voice concerns, rather than waiting for quarterly community forums. While many praised the move as a return to greater transparency and public involvement, others note the city previously shifted away from open comment due to repetitive or disruptive speakers — raising questions about how the new format will function. This week’s poll asks: do you support Vancouver’s decision to restore open public comment at every meeting?
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Vancouver City Council votes to bring back public comment on any subject at council meetings
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